Cody Rhodes earned a place in the upcoming Men’s Elimination Chamber match, setting his sights on a possible WrestleMania opportunity. The American Nightmare’s journey was fraught with challenges, notably when Jacob Fatu nearly secured victory by pinning Sami Zayn after executing a Moonsault. However, Drew McIntyre intervened, delivering a decisive kick to Fatu’s head, shifting the momentum. Following the interference, McIntyre continued his assault on Fatu outside the ring, allowing Rhodes to capitalize and secure his position.
Other Key WWE SmackDown Moments
Jade Cargill successfully defended her Women’s Championship title for the first time since claiming it over 100 days ago during a match against Jordynne Grace. The bout was disrupted by Liv Morgan and Dominik Mysterio, who distracted ringside with a Valentine’s Day-themed rivalry, influencing the match’s atmosphere.
Apollo Crews made his return to in-ring competition after a prolonged absence caused by a torn pectoral injury. Crews had been out of action since January 2025 but gradually reemerged through appearances in AAA and WWE’s Main Event before competing on SmackDown again after 13 months.
Women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifications
On the February 13 episode of SmackDown, Alexa Bliss became the third woman to qualify for the Women’s Elimination Chamber. Bliss secured her entry by landing her signature Sister Abigail finisher on Zelina Vega in a match that also featured Giulia. Meanwhile, as the Women’s Tag Team Championship match unfolded, Lash Legend, Nia Jax, Rhea Ripley, and Iyo Sky’s ongoing feud extended after the bout ended without a decisive winner.
Notable Incidents on Other Wrestling Programs
On TNA iMPACT!, Santino Marella sought to suspend Eric Young following a violent assault on BDE and security personnel. Young’s actions stemmed from his “Cleanse” mission, during which he attacked both his intended targets and backstage security. Additionally, Indi Hartwell and Xia Brookside earned a title shot against The Elegance Brand for the Knockouts World Tag Team Championships at the No Surrender event by recently defeating members of the champion team in pinfall victories.
Rob Van Dam revealed he is feeling “awesome” nearly one year after suffering heel fractures at the MLW Battle Riot in April 2025. His injury occurred after being eliminated during the match, but his recovery indicates a promising return to active competition.
Implications for Cody Rhodes and WWE’s Upcoming Events
Cody Rhodes securing a position in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match positions him strategically for a WrestleMania spotlight, a key milestone in a WWE career. His path to this point has been marked by high-stakes conflicts with prominent figures like Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu, highlighting the intense competition within WWE. As qualifying matches conclude and storylines unfold, fans can anticipate a dramatic buildup toward the Elimination Chamber event with significant implications for WWE’s championship scenes.
